Area Funders Announce Second Wave of Response to COVID-19

Leaders from K21 Health Foundation, Kosciusko County Community Foundation, United Way of Kosciusko County and Zimmer Biomet Foundation have announced the second wave of grants in response to the community’s needs as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Collectively, they are issuing $25,000 in grants to area shelters and residential programs.

Collectively, the funders issued this statement, “As we continue to monitor the most immediate needs arising as a result of COVID-19, we are seeing significant increases in the expenses incurred by shelter and residential programs. The individuals utilizing these programs, who typically work or are active in the community during the day, are now sheltering in place around the clock. Costs of food, supplies, utilities, staffing, cleaning, and in some instances, Personal Protective Equipment, have become tremendous. As funders, we remain united in our commitment to readily respond to our community’s challenges as they arise.”

Area shelter and residential programs being supported through this round of grants include: All Things New, Beaman Home, Bowen Center group homes, Cardinal Services group homes, Fellowship Missions, Rose Garden Recovery Community (formerly Rose Home North), and Serenity House.

The initial round of grants totaling $20,000, announced March 20th, provided support to local food pantries.

As this situation continues to unfold, the funders are dedicated to monitoring the needs of Kosciusko County and anticipate additional waves of grants to support the community in the coming weeks.